Dog Bite Laws

The dog bite laws in Florida are very strict. Generally, the owner of a dog may be liable for damages that the dog causes regardless of whether there was prior warning or if the owner had knowledge that the dog was vicious. In other words, an injury lawyer in Orange Park can explain that a Florida dog owner does not need to be on notice of a vicious dog in order to be liable for injuries.

One Bite Rule

You may be wondering why there is confusion as to dog bite liability if the law is relatively straightforward in Florida. The answer is that different states have different regulations and that right across the border in Georgia, there is a “one bite” rule for determining liability. Under the one bite rule, the owner needs to be on notice that a dog is vicious before being liable for any dog bite injuries. Basically, a dog is entitled to one “free” bite (or other act of aggressive behavior) before the dog owner is responsible. Georgia is one of 16 states with this rule. The one bite rule allows dog owners to assume that their dogs are not dangerous. But as soon as the owner is put on notice of the dog’s tendency for viciousness, the owner must take proactive steps to protect people in foreseeable dangerous situations. Failure to do so may result in liability for later injuries. Some factors that a Orange Park injury lawyer will look at to examine a tendency for viciousness include:

Previous Bite. The most obvious sign that a dog is dangerous is if the dog has previously bitten another person.

Aggressive Behavior. Overly aggressive behavior like jumping on people, protecting the home or family members from strangers, and barking incessantly may support notice that a dog is dangerous.

Biting Other Dogs. A dog does not need to have previously bitten another person to put the owner on notice. Even dog bites to another dog may support a tendency for the dog’s viciousness.

Breed of the dog. Certain breeds of dogs are associated with vicious behavior such as pit bulls and German Shepherds.

Prior Complaints. If neighbors had previously complained about the dog, this may support notice that the dog is dangerous.

Contact a Orange Park Injury Lawyer

Florida does not have a “one bite” rule. Dog owners may be responsible for the injuries caused by their dog regardless of whether there is any prior notice of aggressive or dangerous behavior. However, because different jurisdictions have different laws, you may be unsure what your rights are. A Orange Park injury lawyer can help you resolve any uncertainties about your rights and review your case and the applicable legal standards. To get started with your case, contact First Coast Accident Lawyers at (904) 215-5555 and learn how we can help you.

Our Location

The information provided on this web site is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice. Every case is different and requires individual attention before such advice can be given. Neither the transmission nor receipt of general advice to or from our website will constitute an attorney-client relationship.